Things You'll Need:
- Phone book
- Time
- Pen and paper
- Checklist
- References
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Step 1
Use the phone book to locate the closest pet groomer in your area. There is no since driving clear across town unless you have to. Select and call several of the local pet groomer in your area but before you do read step number 2.
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Step 2
Take out pen and paper and make your self three columns on the paper so that you can call three different groomer. You will need a checklist of questions to ask the pet groomer in advance of taking your pet to them. Write down the following questions. First ask questions about the groomer. Then ask questions about their chemicals and their techniques. Last but not least any miscellaneous questions.
Begin with asking to speak to the pet groomer not the receptionist for the interview. Ask the groomer the following questions. Where did you get your training? Did they go to a pet grooming school? How long have you been in business? Do you have any animals? Do you have references? Are you a breeder? Do you offer boarding services? Do you groom cats, birds or other animals?
At the beginning of the visit, do they ask you what type of cut and style you want for your animal. Do you use any kind of harsh chemicals when you bath the animals. What type of soaps and perfumes do you have or use? What type of flea and tick shampoos do you use. What grade are they, commercial grade of over the counter brands? How do you handle an animal that is not cooperating with you? How do you handle the situation if you nick or accidentally cut the animal. What do you after the pet is groomed. Do you use any type of sedatives on the animals. Do you crate them after you are done?
Ask them if they have any question about your pet? Hopefully they will ask without you prompting them. Ask how much does it cost for their service and how long do they take. -
Step 3
Now that you have the answers call the next groomer and conduct the same interview with them. Conduct this step one more time until you have three different interviews with three different groomer in your area. Compare them with each other and against each other. How do they communicate with you? Were they friendly? Were they polite?
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Step 4
Check references. The best way to know if a groomer is professional or not is to check their references and visit their shops. References can be from friends, neighbors and even veterinarians. Make sure the place is clean and orderly. Ask if you can observe them while they groom. Some people will only take their animals to a place where they can be viewed while grooming. There are places like Pet Smart and PetsCo that allow this. Ask how they will contact you when your pet is done.
